Read up on Postpartum depression treatment options at Consumer Reports Health.

Postpartum depression

Key points about treatments

If you have just had a baby and have felt low and sad for more than a couple of weeks, you may have postpartum depression. This illness is quite common, especially in the first few weeks after giving birth.

You may think it is up to you to "pull yourself together." You may even worry that you're a bad mother. But having postpartum depression is not your fault.

Postpartum depression usually goes away on its own. But it can last for a while. That can be harmful for you, your baby and your partner. The good news is that there are treatments that can help you feel better sooner.

Key messages about treating postpartum depression

There are several treatments to choose from. Talk to your doctor about which ones are right for you.
Some antidepressant drugs are likely to help get rid of your depression. But they get into your breast milk. You may wish to discuss with your doctor whether they are safe to take if you are breastfeeding.
Talking treatments, such as

cognitive behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a type of talking treatment (psychotherapy). It is based on the idea that the negative thoughts and beliefs people have play an important role in how they feel and how they act. CBT helps people identify, look at and change unwanted thoughts, feelings and behaviors.

cognitive behavioral therapy, are likely to work. But there hasn't been much research on these.
St. John's wort, an herbal treatment, may be used to treat depression at other times in your life. But we don't know if St. John's wort is safe to take if you are breastfeeding your baby.

This information was last updated on Mar 06, 2009

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
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